Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Unveils 2026 Debutantes at 40th Annual Presentation Ball Announcement Weekend

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League (DSOL) set the stage for an unforgettable season as they proudly introduced the 2026 debutantes during a week-long series of events, starting with the announcement of this year’s Debutantes at a party on May 15. Events continued with a Deb and Honor Guard Family dinner at the historic downtown El Fenix, a couture gown showcase hosted by Stanley Korshak at their luxurious Bridal Salon, and a gown presentation at Neiman Marcus Downtown. The series of events officially kicked off the season that will culminate in the much anticipated 40th Annual Presentation Ball, scheduled for February 21, 2026, at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center. 

2026 Debutantes
Photo by Gittings

Presentation Ball Co-Chairs Maggie Kipp and Kristin Hallam, along with DSOL President Claire Catrino, orchestrated the week’s events. Claire is a former debutante who made her debut in 2011 and has been a part of the ball’s planning and organization since that time.  

Co-Chairs Maggie Kipp and Kristin Hallam with DSOL President Claire Catrino
Photo by Deborah Brown

“It is an honor to serve as President for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League,” said Claire. “Our debutantes and their families will enjoy many wonderful events, make new friends and have one-of-a-kind experiences all while supporting the outstanding education and outreach programs of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.  

Meredith Burkhart, Ryan Brown, Margaret Thompson, Ellie Browne, Olivia Zambrano, Elena Zeballos
Photo by Gittings

Kristin Hallam proudly announced that her in-laws, Fanchon and Howard Hallam, will serve as the Honorary Chairs. The Hallams have a longstanding and meaningful connection to the Dallas Symphony. Howard served for many years on the Board of Governors of the Dallas Symphony Association, including a term as Chairman.  Their leadership gift was pivotal in launching the Kim Noltemy Young Musicians program – one of the initiatives supported by the Ball – and they have generously endowed the DSO Co-Concertmaster Chair. 

The year will be one with many milestones reached: the DSOL will celebrate its 80th anniversary, the Presentation Ball is entering its 40th year, and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra will turn 125 years old.

The formal announcement of Debutantes by Master of Ceremonies Stan Gardner went flawlessly. Marena Gault and members of the Assembly, a group of former Debutantes, played a pivotal role behind the scenes coaching the Debutantes and Honor Guard for a smooth presentation.

Stella Grabham, Ashley Goldman, Gigi Enrico, Kate Eastin
Photo by Gittings

Notable attendees for the evening included Michelle Miller Burns, Ross Perot President and CEO of the DSO; Roger Gault, Chairman of the Board of Governors; Diane and Scott Sealy; The Honorable Clay and Ramsey Jenkins; and Denton Bricker.   

Also present was longtime League member Barbara Paschall Averitt who has been a dedicated and influential figure in the Presentation Ball since its inception in 1987. She has continuously contributed to the event, including serving as co-chair for the 2025 Presentation Ball. 

Introducing the 2026 Debutantes: Claire Francis Andrews, Madeline Grace Behrens, Claire Louise Bradshaw, Ryan EllaMarie Brown, Eleanor Baxter Browne, Meredith Lilly Burkhart, Catherine Sophia Cox, Larkin McKay Devening, Marbella Mora Duarte, Sophie Elizabeth Dybala, Kathryne Grace Eastin, Gisele MaryRose Enrico, Ashley Shannon Goldman, Stella Jane Grabham, MaKenna Loy Harvey, Elizabeth Ann Hautt, Jane Penny Hochman, Madeleine Christine Jenkins, Livia Grace Lange, Charlotte Bryant Lauten, Sue Sealy McGowin, Attales Grace Meyer, Elizabeth Catherine Nance, Madelyn Leigh Neuhoff, Carly Nicole Polka, Chloe Olivia Polka, Rachel Camille Rader, Sofia Marie Reyes, Marlo Elizabeth Rivas, Campbell Ann Schultz, Kathleen Brooks Searcy, Lindy Kate Smith, Sienna Alexis Stagen, Tessa Elizabeth Stephenson, Charlotte Spencer Stiles, Harper Catherine Tagg, Margaret Lee Thompson, Corinne Elizabeth Tinker, Georgia Bedell Williamson, Virginia Anne Wilson, Olivia Constance Zambrano, and Elena Catherine Zeballos.  

The presentation of these remarkable young women highlights the values and support instilled by their families and mentors. Their achievements and character are a testament to the collective effort of their loved ones, shaping them into the exemplary individuals they are today.

62nd Art Ball Gala Celebrates MOMENTUM

 

The Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) is pleased to announce details for this year’s Art Ball 2024 presented by Neiman Marcus.  Entitled "MOMENTUM,” this year’s fundraiser will celebrate 62 years of remarkable achievements on Saturday, April 13, 2024. This spectacular evening will take place at the DMA and feature an evening of dinner, drinks, a live auction, and an exciting afterparty.

Leading this year’s efforts are co-chairs Andy Smith and Paul von Wupperfeld. Both gentlemen bring their enthusiasm for helping the community and professional expertise to their role as co-chairs of Art Ball 2024. A fifth-generation Texan, Smith is the director of Giving and Volunteering for Texas Instruments and is the executive director of the TI Foundation. von Wupperfeld is currently the public relations manager at Qorvo semiconductor, where he leads the company’s social media and press communications. 

Co-Chairs Paul von Wupperfeld and Andy Smith

Momentum was selected as this year’s theme as it embodies the pulsating force propelling the Dallas Museum of Art forward, infusing the Dallas Arts District with a vibrant sense of energy and progression. Just as an object in motion stays in motion, the Dallas Museum of Art consistently evolves and transforms. Art Ball 2024 aims to honor the Museum's rich history while joyously celebrating the Momentum that drives us onward, ignites artistic creation, and propels us to explore the limitless possibilities the future has in store.

Tickets start at $3,500 and all proceeds of the Art Ball will directly support the DMA’s commitment to presenting diverse exhibitions, providing innovative educational and public programs, and caring for a collection of 25,000 objects—all while offering engaging access to incredible works of art.

To purchase tickets or learn more about the various sponsorship levels, customizable benefits, and opportunities for creative brand visibility, please email artball@dma.org.

Retailers Team Up to Support Boys & Girls Clubs of America During Holiday Season

This holiday season, retailers are rallying around Boys & Girls Clubs of America to support the organization who serves 4.6 million kids and teens after-school, during the summer and more recently due to COVID-19, all day. Twelve partners will donate and encourage their customers to give back to the non-profit now through December 31, 2020.

Today, more than 4,700 Boys & Girls Clubs serve kids and teens, especially the ones that need it most. With the organization's vast reach to impact and enable youth to achieve a great future, there is an estimated 16 million Club alumni living today. In a study of Club alumni, more than half (54 percent) said their Boys & Girls Club saved their life.

Companies supporting Boys & Girls Clubs of America this holiday season include:

Forever 21

"It's The Love You Give" holiday campaign

specially marked Holiday Collection items and limited edition holiday gift bags

Neiman Marcus

donate to BGCA while shopping online and in-stores, supporting local Clubs in Neiman Marcus communities

Buffalo Wild Wings

$1 from every bottle of signature sauce or dry seasonings sold supports local youth sports through programs like BGCA's ALL STARS program

 Microsoft

Sign up for Microsoft Rewards, turn on Give with Bing, and select Boys & Girls Clubs of America as your nonprofit of choice. Your Bing searches will earn points that automatically turn into donations for BGCA. Plus, Microsoft will match your donations through December 31.

Champion

Champion For All collection, aimed at creating a more inclusive environment 

Proceeds from this collection help support a donation of 50,000 masks to BGCA. The collection is available exclusively at Champion.com

First Responders Thank You

Donating 25% of the purchase price of their high-quality, well-priced performance apparel to their six charity partners, including BGCA.

For more details on the incredible partners that support Boys & Girls Clubs of America's holiday programs and how to participate, visit bgca.org/holiday.

Cocktails, Couture, and Cookies with Santa

Neiman Marcus downtown will be closed for this event that includes fashion show, private shopping, special buys, awesome raffle and more!

This popular event will surely sell out fast because seats are limited!

Be sure to buy raffle tickets for a chance to win a Valentino Purse, Akola Necklace and Secret Santa Surprise - total value of items is over $1,500!! Tickets are $25 or 5 for $100. No need to be present to win.

Proceeds support Women With Promise, a charitable network of professional women united in their pledge to help north Texas women who have emerged from crisis and poverty by providing the means to higher education so they can improve their lives and the lives of their families.

By focusing on education and mentorship, the building blocks are formed for long term success and a self-sustaining livelihood.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cocktails-cookies-couture-with-santa-tickets-75725636417?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

7th Annual Vine and Dine for Ability Connection Texas

The seventh annual Vine and Dine dinner and charity auction supports Ability Connection Texas and their passion to provide the very highest quality care and support to children and adults with disabilities.

Slated for Thursday, November 20^th and hosted by Neiman Marcus Downtown, the event is chaired by Suzanne and Don Laidlaw, and Christie and John Reniger. Honorary chairs are Sue and Bill Knudsen, President and CEO of Ability Connection Texas.

The evening begins with a cocktail reception followed by a gourmet dinner in the intimate Zodiac Room prepared by Executive Chef Kevin Garvin. Dinner is accompanied by select wines paired especially for each course donated by Brenda and Clay Cockerell, Coquerel Family Wine Estates.

 

After dinner, Heritage Charity Auctions auctioneer takes the stage and a rousing and always thoroughly entertaining live auction begins, featuring many one-of-a-kind items and exclusive trips.

 

The mission of Ability Connection Texas is to provide a full range of services for people with physical and intellectual disabilities as they strive to achieve their highest level of independence. Whether advocating for the rights of people with disabilities, teaching the letters of the alphabet to a child with autism, or training an adult with a head injury to re-enter the workforce with the use of adaptive technology, Ability Connection Texas is the preeminent organization leading the way for people with any type of disability.

 

Ability Connection Texas takes pride in its excellent stewardship of funds raised with 90 percent of contributions going directly to programs and services.

 

Visit the website for more details about Ability Connection Texas and their mission at www.AbilityConnectionTexas.org

Equest Women's Auxiliary Luncheon Recap

Katherine Coker, Louise Griffeth, Angie Kadesky, Elsa Norwood, Ann Dyer

On June 10, Neiman Marcus downtown hosted the Equest Women's Auxiliary to thank them for their work in supporting Equest’s programs.  Equest provides therapeutic sports riding classes and Hippotherapy to more than 180 clients every week. The organization serves children and adults with all types of physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities, and it has become one of the largest nonprofit therapeutic riding centers in the state.

Margaret Hancock and Emily Hargrove

Katherine Coker, president of Equest Women’s Auxiliary, thanked Neiman Marcus for hosting the luncheon at the Zodiac Room and told about the Auxiliary’s role. “The Auxiliary plays a very important role in sustaining the services of Equest, and I recently learned that historically the funds it raises accounts for 20 percent of Equest’s operating budget.” She also recognized Louise Griffeth who had the vision to start the Auxiliary and longtime Equest Auxiliary Board Member Elsa Norwood. 

Kim Miller, Natalie Taylor, Anne Besser

Jeff Byron, Neiman Marcus’ general manager, was honored to host the luncheon because of his personal interest in Equest as a volunteer who guides the riders. Coker added that the Equest Women's Auxiliary Luncheon and Style Show, “Year of the Horse,” is October 7 at Brook Hollow Golf Club. Chaired by Angie Kadesky, this luncheon, which raises much needed funds for Equest, is expected to sell out. More information about joining the Auxiliary and attending the luncheon can be found at http://www.equest.org/events/womens-auxiliary

The RSVP List Spotlight: Jordan Payne Events

We have just returned from Spring Break, and we are thrilled to kick off the week with a peek inside our ultimate resource guide -- The RSVP List.  It's a first-hand look at all things that Kimberly and RSVP Calendar loves about Dallas.  From beauty to florists, restaurants to interior design, catering to all things event planning!

Let us give you the scoop on one of our very favorite event planners, Jordan Payne Events. 

 

Jordan Payne makes it HER passion in life to design and implement the most exquisite weddings and events. For over ten years, Jordan and her team have brought to life the dreams and desires of each client, ranging from executives to celebrities, The Salvation Army, Dallas Cowboys and Neiman Marcus, just to name a few.  Nationally known, Jordan's work has been featured in Grace Ormonde, Modern Luxury, Ceci New York, D Weddings, The Knot and others.  Jordan is currently planning The Salvation Army Echelon 30M Gala on Saturday, May 10, 2014 at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas.

 

Need direction and design in planning your next decadent party, bridal luncheon or corporate event? Give Jordan a call!

Contact:

Jordan Payne Events

2633 McKinney Avenue, No. 130, Ste. 206

Dallas, Texas 75204

call: 214-577-5880

e: jordan@jordanpayneevents.com

blog: www.jordanpayneeventsblog.com

 

Reminder for Council for Life Members!

www.councilforlife.org

Neiman Marcus and Target Pair Up!

Have you heard the news? This press release made the girls in the RSVP office do a back flip with excitement! Take a look...

"Two of our most beloved brands—Target and Neiman Marcus—are teaming up for an unprecedented limited-edition holiday collection of gifts featuring 24 of America’s most preeminent designers, all of whom are members of the CFDA (The Council of Fashion Designers of America).

The two retail industry visionaries looked through their (not so) little black books and partnered with the CFDA to enlist designer friends to create a collection of more than 50 eclectic gifting products—from apparel and home décor to pet products, sporting goods and more. Just in time for holiday shopping, this one-of-a-kind collection hits all Target and Neiman Marcus stores (and Target.com and NeimanMarcus.com) on December 1.

“The holidays are a magical time of year and we know that guests count on Target and Neiman Marcus for standout gifts to make the season memorable,” said Kathee Tesija, executive vice president of Merchandising, Target. “By combining our two brands and tapping into some of the most talented designers across the United States, we’ve created a remarkable collection of must-have products that we’re confident will land on wish lists this holiday season.”

We have a feeling a lot of wish lists are being made right now.

“The boundless creativity of our designers, combined with exceptionally high quality production, make this unprecedented collaboration very exciting for Neiman Marcus,” says Jim Gold, President, Specialty Retail, Neiman Marcus Group. “We could not be more proud to team with Target, our designers and the CFDA, and look forward to bringing our customers this fun and accessible celebration of American design during the holiday season.”

Ranging in price from $7.99 to $499.99, with most items less than $60, the collection boasts an impressive designer roster: Alice + Olivia, Altuzarra, Band of Outsiders, Brian Atwood, Carolina Herrera, Derek Lam, Diane von Furstenberg, Eddie Borgo, Jason Wu, Judith Leiber, Lela Rose, Marchesa, Marc Jacobs, Oscar de la Renta, Philip Crangi, Prabal Gurung, Proenza Schouler, Rag & Bone, Robert Rodriguez, Rodarte, Skaist-Taylor, Thom Browne, Tory Burch and Tracy Reese.

All of the participating designers are proud members of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), which is why Target and Neiman Marcus will also be donating $1 million to the council. The donation underscores the duo’s longstanding commitment to design and innovation, and will be used to support fashion design talent through scholarships, mentoring and business development programs

“I can think of no better finale to CFDA’s 50^th Anniversary celebration than through this extraordinary designer collaboration,” said CFDA President Diane von Furstenberg. “As designers, creativity is our best gift, and with the generous support of Neiman Marcus and Target, we are happy to have created specially designed products as a thank you to share with our consumers and friends.”

The revolutionary partnership between Target and Neiman Marcus has been in the works for quite some time, but was well kept under wraps. (How they ever kept this big of a secret so long will remain one of the grand questions of this generation.)

The designers were given the freedom to explore categories they felt strongly about—some chose to create products that fall in their area of “expertise,” while others took this as an opportunity to explore an entirely new category. What results is an unforgettable collaboration that we can’t wait for you to see.

We can’t tell you too much more just yet, but stay tuned for more juicy details in the coming months and the big unveil later this fall. For now, let your mind wander about what each designer has created for the exclusive collection and mark your calendars for December 1."

Follow @ABullseyeView and @NeimanMarcus (#Holiday24), and visit ABullseyeView.com and NMdaily.com for updates.

Crystal Charity Luncheon and Fashion Show

and Neiman Marcus Downtown
invite you to the
Annual Luncheon and Fashion Show
Thursday, September 8, 2011

The luncheon will honor the Ten Best Dressed Women of Dallas, as selected by members of the Crystal Charity Ball Committee.

The 2011 Best Dressed Women of Dallas are Tricia Besing, Nancy Carter, Robyn Conlon, Claire Emanuelson, Kim Miller, Pat McEvoy, Pam Perella, Nancy Rogers, Lee Ann White and Ellen Winspear.

Elaine Agather will be the 2011 Best Dressed Hall of Fame Honoree. Longtime Crystal Charity benefactor Annette Simmons will serve as Honorary Chairman of this year’s luncheon.

The 2011 Crystal Charity Ball will benefit eight beneficiaries with a collective need of $4,265,030: Communities in Schools, Contact Crisis Line, Dallas Mission for Life, Los Barrios Unidos Community Clinic, Methodist Health System Foundation,
Nexus Recovery Center, Trinity River Mission and Vickery Meadow Learning Center.

Prizes include: a fabulous Paris vacation with 2 nights at Mandarin Oriental, 2 tickets to Valentino Fall 2012 show in March 2012, and 2 business class round trips on American Airlines; NM Downtown shopping spree; and Canyon Ranch 7-night spa getaway for two.

Tickets for the luncheon may be purchased by calling 214-526-5868 x25.

Vogel Alcove's Star Supporters

An NBA Star and a Culinary Queen Support the Vogel Alcove

Cynthia Smoot and Jason Kidd

Before the Dallas Mavericks became World Champions, Jason Kidd and the Jason Kidd Foundation, began a winning partnership with the Vogel Alcove. It was a tour of the Vogel Alcove in March of 2011 that inspired Jason and his fiancé Porschla Coleman, with son Chance in tow, to become more involved. Time on the basketball court with the homeless children served by the Vogel Alcove helped convince Jason and Porschla, Jason Kidd Foundation Executive Director, to name the Vogel Alcove as a beneficiary of the First Annual Jason Kidd Foundation Celebrity Casino Night held in March 2011. This event brought a spotlight to the Vogel Alcove and attracted Dallas Mavericks players and coaches, Herschel Walker, Tony Dorsett, Vogel Alcove board members and donors and more. Following the event, the Vogel Alcove received a check in the amount of $10,000 from the Jason Kidd Foundation and a promise of future support.

Alan Gold, Karen Hughes, Porschla Coleman, Jason Kidd, Regina Bruce

Despite the NBA's demanding playoff schedule Jason and Porschla also attended a Vogel Alcove Auxiliary event in April 2011 which was hosted by Halcyon Days Salon and Spa at Neiman Marcus within NorthPark Center. Halcyon Days General Manager, Jared Newton, and his gracious staff offered esteemed guests complimentary champagne and salon services such as mini facials, massages, manicures and hair blowouts while Merry Miller strung the harp. The Jason Kidd Foundation graciously donated autographed basketballs and other keepsakes to this affair which helped promote the 20th Annual Vogel Alcove Arts Performance Event in May. Furthermore, Jason and Porschla, who are honorary members of the Vogel Alcove Auxiliary, were guests of this anticipated annual occasion.

In addition to Jason Kidd championing the Vogel Alcove, Lisa Garza from The Food Network's "The Next Food Network Star” supports the organization through her latest collection of vintage inspired aprons—Couture Caviar. The celebrity chef, restaurateur, TV personality and mother has graciously offered to design an exclusive mother/daughter apron to benefit the Vogel Alcove. Lisa and her latest Couture Caviar collection will launch at Neiman Marcus in late summer or early fall with exciting details to be announced.

TOMS Does It Again With Sunglasses

TOMS became a huge hit with their line of shoes and philosophy of "One for One." For each pair of shoes sold, another pair went to an individual in need of shoes. We all sometimes take for granted something that seems so minute, but in other parts of the world is not only a necessity, but a luxury.

TOMS is at it again, this time with a line of eyewear. They have a lot of different styles that are very hip and with each pair purchased the same "one for one" thinking is put to use; a person can receive the eye care that he or she desperately needs. Sight is a fundamental need that founder Blake Mycoskie realized when he came up with this idea as well as the shoes.

The wonderful company formed by Blake is always looking for ways to help so many people that need aid around the world. We can all help in their mission. Buy some awesome sunglasses and know you are doing a wonderful thing for someone in this world.

TOMS Eyewear may be purchased online by CLICKING HERE or at our local Neiman Marcus Stores, Nordstrom's, Tylers or Viceroy Anguilla.

Chantecaille Sea Turtle Palette: Helping to Save Sea Turtles

Just another wonderful excuse to go shopping...and for a good cause, so there will be no buyer's remorse at all! Chantecaille has come up with their Sea Turtle Palette which has three gorgeous colors for your eyes and a magnificent cheek color perfect for anyone, all in this one great compact. Now here is where you will not feel guilty after you are walking out of your local Neiman's; 5% of the proceeds will help WIDECAST, a nonprofit full of experts in 40 nations and territories that are committed to ensure the recovery and sustainable management of the depleted sea turtle populations.

What are you waiting for? Go buy a palette or two, for the Sea Turtles and you!

Vine & Dine Dinner and Auction

Vine & Dine Annual Dinner & Auction
Benefitting United Cerebral Palsy
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Zodiac Room, Neiman Marcus, Downtown Dallas

2010 Honorary Chairs - Myrna & Bob Schlegel

2010 Event Co-Chairs - Jennifer Clark & Lisa Kulp
Register for this event!
The evening will be a wonderful celebration with fine wine and delectable cuisine prepared by Chef Kevin Garvin. Scott Murray and Neiman Marcus' own Ken Downing will host the event which will include a fabulous auction of luxe items and an incredible South Seas cruise.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Black Tie Ball

Saturday, November 6, 2010

The Fairmont Dallas Hotel

Regency Ballroom

The Big Black Tie Ball: An Evening of Masterpieces presented by Neiman Marcus celebrates the masterpieces that are the children in our program. Not defined by a single extraordinary element, a true masterpiece represents the sum of ordinary elements placed together in extraordinary cohesiveness. The children served by Big Brothers Big Sisters, as guided by our programs and volunteers, become empowered to identify those positive and unique elements that define who they are and utilize them to fulfill their greatest vision of success for themselves.

This Evening of Masterpieces hopes to inspire you through the people that inspire us every day, our children. The funds raised this evening will benefit the more than 4,000 works of art currently waiting for a Big Brother or Big Sister. For each $1,000 raised, one child will be removed from our waiting list and matched to a mentor who will help them realize the masterpiece in each of them.

Individual Tickets are $500. Sponsorships are available from $3,000.

Please click here for more information.

If you are interested in volunteering at the Big Black Tie Ball, please send an email to gala@bbbstx.org or call 888.887.BIGS

Stiletto Struting at Neiman Marcus

Looking for a way to promote Women's heart health and keep your Manolos on at the same time?  This is the perfect event for you!  Grab a date and support Cardiovascular research and educational programs for the the women's initiatives of the American Heart Association on the 7th of May from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Downtown Neiman Marcus Flagship.  While the men catch up in the Loafer Lounge, the ladies will take a sassy strut around the block!  Cocktails and fun activities from a sketch artist to a fun photo opp will follow and any "Slingback" sponsorships or higher will continue on to a delicious dinner and fantastic new Joule Hotel. To sponsor the Neiman Marcus Stiletto Strut, contact Jennifer Howell at 214-712-1307 or jennifer.howell@heart.org.  There are various sponsorship levels or individual tickets that start at $250.